Mayor Vi Lyles named Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree for ‘Who’s Who In Black Charlotte’

‘Who’s Who In Black Charlotte’ is thrilled to announce Mayor Vi Lyles as the Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree for its upcoming 9th edition. This recognition highlights Lyles’ extraordinary contributions to the city and her unwavering dedication to public service.

Since its inception, ‘Who’s Who In Black’ has been a cornerstone in celebrating the achievements of Black professionals and leaders across various industries. This publication has become a beacon of recognition, showcasing the outstanding accomplishments and influence of individuals within the Black community. Mayor Lyles’ selection for this prestigious award underscores her significant impact on Charlotte and beyond.

As the Mayor of Charlotte, Vi Lyles has led the city with vision and determination. Now in her fourth term, she has overseen a period of remarkable growth and economic prosperity for Charlotte, which has become the 16th largest city in the United States, with a population nearing 900,000. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to enhancing quality of life and ensuring equal opportunities for all residents.

One of Mayor Lyles’ most notable achievements is her proactive approach to affordable housing. She has been instrumental in securing $150 million for housing projects, which have benefited over 5,000 families. Her vision for the city’s growth is also evident in her support for comprehensive transportation infrastructure and community safety initiatives. Key projects include the ambitious Charlotte Future 2040 Comprehensive Plan and the Unified Development Ordinance, which streamline city development and land use.

During her first term, Mayor Lyles championed the expansion of the Charlotte Area Transit System, integrating a 19-mile light rail line that connects key areas of the city. This expansion aligns with her Vision Zero strategy, aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and improving overall road safety.

Sustainability is another cornerstone of Mayor Lyles’ leadership. The Sustainable and Resilient Charlotte by 2050 Resolution, unanimously passed by the City Council, reflects her commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to zero-carbon sources for city operations by 2030. Her role as co-chair of the coalition America is All In further underscores her dedication to advocating for a national climate strategy to address the climate crisis.

Mayor Lyles’ leadership extends to racial equity and economic inclusion. The Racial Equity Initiative, launched in 2021 with a $250 million investment, focuses on dismantling barriers and promoting equality through strategic investments in historically underserved areas, education, digital equity, and corporate diversity.

Economic development under her tenure has been robust, with significant job creation and recognition of Charlotte as a technology and innovation hub. Initiatives like HIRE Charlotte highlight her approach to addressing employment barriers and supporting the city’s dynamic workforce.

In public safety, Mayor Lyles has supported the SAFE Charlotte plan and the Alternatives to Violence program, which address crime root causes and enhance community well-being.

Before becoming mayor, Lyles’ dedication to public service was evident in her tenure on the City Council and her role as a city employee, where she established the city’s first capital budget. A graduate of Queens University with a Bachelor’s in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Administration from UNC Chapel Hill, Mayor Lyles’ career exemplifies her unwavering commitment to Charlotte’s growth and her constituents’ well-being.

Since 1989, Who’s Who In Black’s sole focus has been the celebration and elevation of Black culture, Black achievement and Black people. Who’s Who In Black recognizes the deficit of mainstream media’s inclusion of the stories that truly reflect who we are as a people. Who’s Who In Black is a space for our people to network, build and elevate each other to their highest potential. We have touchpoints in over 30 markets, produced nearly 200 custom editions and have garnered the respect of some of the most respected leaders of our generation. From our signature unveiling celebrations to our specialized content and our access to the who’s who in Black America, we are the ultimate networking platform for Black people across every major field of endeavor.